The Institute of Groundsmanship (IOG) and the British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA) have announced they are to work together to extend the IOG Industry Awards by including three new greenkeeping categories at next year’s event.

Geoff Webb, IOG CEO; Chris Sealey, BIGGA vice chair, David Teasdale, IOG chair and Jim Croxton, BIGGA CEO.

The cooperation between the two industry bodies was announced by IOG chief executive Geoff Webb at last week’s successful IOG Raise the Game Conference at the Ricoh Arena, Coventry. The conference preceded this year’s awards ceremony, the fifth in the annual series.

The new greenkeeping categories are expected to recognise the achievements of greenkeepers the length and breadth of the UK, whether they are employed at large multi-course facilities or smaller venues.

Commenting, Geoff Webb said: “Our annual awards continue to grow from strength to strength both in popularity throughout the groundscare industry and in raising the profile of the sector in the public domain.

“The new golf-focused categories will not only broaden the awards into another major sporting arena but they will also help the IOG to continue to improve and enhance an awards scheme that is the only event of its kind in the UK.” 

“It’s an ideal opportunity for members of the greenkeeping fraternity to be rewarded for their dedication, skill, professionalism and adaptability, particularly in challenging economic times.”

The IOG awards highlight the high standards of volunteer and professional grounds professionals and facilities, from grass roots to professional stadia level. Covering categories such as sport, young people and the environment, the awards are judged by an independent panel on criteria that include effective use of resources, budgetary control, presentation and housekeeping standards, as well as environmental considerations.